King Warns of Potential Long-Term Impact on Tottenham Star After This Week’s ‘Harsh’ Decision
Bryan King Predicts Rodrigo Bentancur Will Need Time to Regain Form at Tottenham After Seven-Match Suspension
Former Spurs scout David King has expressed his confusion and frustration over the punishment handed to Rodrigo Bentancur.
The Tottenham midfielder was charged by the FA in September for comments made during a June interview in Uruguay, where he suggested South Korean teammate Son Heung-min and his cousins “all look the same” (via Evening Standard, 12 September).
The FA confirmed on Monday (18 November) that an independent Regulatory Commission imposed a seven-match suspension and a £100,000 fine on Bentancur for breaching FA Rule E3.
The decision has sparked debate over its fairness and timing.
Speaking exclusively to Tottenham News, King criticized the punishment as overly harsh and poorly timed.
“This could cause issues for Bentancur when he comes back,” King said.
“He’ll be out of rhythm and will need time to get back up to speed. The punishment feels excessively severe.
What was the point of him apologizing if he’s still punished like this months later? I just don’t understand it.”
King emphasized that Bentancur recognized his mistake and issued an immediate apology.
However, he believes the penalty is a significant setback for both the player and manager Ange Postecoglou. “It’s a big loss for the team, especially at this time.
The whole situation feels unnecessarily harsh,” he added.
The decision has drawn criticism from other Premier League clubs as well.
According to The Telegraph (18 November), Spurs’ rivals are reportedly surprised by both the severity of the punishment and the inconsistencies surrounding similar cases.
This leaves Postecoglou in a challenging position, as he must adapt to Bentancur’s absence in the coming weeks.
While the ruling appears final, it could have lasting consequences for Bentancur.
The midfielder may face challenges regaining match fitness and securing his place in the Spurs lineup upon his return.
Maintaining peak performance during the suspension will be crucial to ensure a smooth reintegration into the squad.
Though Bentancur’s comments warranted accountability, the severity and timing of the FA’s punishment have raised significant concerns about fairness and its impact on both the player and his team.
